There is something so satisfying about a hot chewy bagel, and although few can match the delights found in New York, there are some mighty fine bagels to be had in Jacksonville, Florida. The flowing list of shops offer some of the best bagels in town, yeah, this is how breakfast is done in Northeast Florida.
1. The Panera Bread Company Café
1440 Hendricks Avenue
904-396-4833
This is one of the friendliest places to go for breakfast, and they craft a great breakfast built on a foundation of a crisp, well-caramelized bagel. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and I believe that getting it fast is important but also that having breakfast in an atmosphere that is warm and inviting is conducive to great job performance the remainder of the day. They offer flavors such as:
Asiago Cheese
Blueberry
Cinnamon Crunch
French Toast
Whole Grain
The best part of having breakfast at Panera is that you can choose from one of their sandwich choices or build your own. Eating in or taking it to go, your experience will be top notch and the food is excellent.
2. Bagels R’Us
14185 Beach Blvd
904-223-9333
While this may be what many consider as a “Mom and Pop” establishment, that is what makes it one of the most enjoyable places to eat in the city. The bagels are divine, and if you want it to go, they give you the order in a brown paper bag. This is so reminiscent of carry a bag lunch to school that you will not be able to stop yourself from becoming nostalgic. The prices are affordable, and they offer plenty of diversity in toppings. The bagels are great, but it is the service that will have you coming back for more. After only a few visits the owners generally will be able to recognize you and what you like to order as well. This gives you a warm fuzzy feeling inside.
3. The Healthy Bagel
1500 University Blvd W
904-730-3322
This is a real family owned and operated bakery café. What it lacks in décor is more than made up for in taste and service. You get to pick your own bagel from the basket, give it to the cashier with your order for fillings. The bagels are made daily onsite so they are always fresh. They also offer the bagels left over from the day before a great discount. This is the real bargain.
Jacksonville Florida has a lot to offer to tourist and if you want to eat like the locals these are the best places to “get your breakfast on” in town. Bon Appetit.
